Economy

Mortgage rates in the Netherlands have increased due to the Iran conflict. First‑time buyers, as well as buyers in major cities and the new‑build market, are particularly likely to feel the impact, according to ING Research.

Dutch privacy and consumer advocates are pushing back against a plan to give banks direct access to the national personal records database. While the government claims the move will streamline anti-money laundering efforts, critics warn of a "disproportionate" breach of data protection laws. The debate highlights the tension between financial security and individual privacy rights in the digital age.

Philips has maintained its position as the top Dutch applicant at the European Patent Office, leading the way in medical technology. The company filed over 1,200 patents in 2025, focusing heavily on AI-driven healthcare solutions and sustainable diagnostic imaging. These innovations are part of a broader goal to improve billions of lives globally by the end of the decade.

ASML employees in Veldhoven have protested against 1,700 planned job cuts worldwide. Despite record financial results, unions and staff remain concerned about how the reorganization will affect job security and product quality. The dispute continues as workers call for management to reconsider the scale of the layoffs and the use of external contractors.

The Dutch economy is expected to grow more slowly after the outbreak of the war in Iran, according to ABN AMRO. The bank has slightly lowered its growth forecasts and warns that inflation will rise more sharply. Despite this, economists say the Netherlands is well placed to absorb the shock.

The Dutch central bank has reported another annual loss, though the figure is much smaller than last year’s deficit. DNB now expects losses to last longer than previously predicted, with no dividend for the state for the time being. The bank says its core tasks and financial buffers remain secure.

Air France has prolonged flight suspensions to several destinations in the Middle East, including Tel Aviv, amid continuing security concerns. KLM has also extended cancellations, citing unsafe airspace and the ongoing conflict in the region.

Airlines using Eindhoven Airport will temporarily move services to Maastricht and Weeze during a major runway renovation next year. Transavia and TUI have already announced how they will adjust their operations. It remains unclear what other major carriers at Eindhoven will do.